Manang locals set out for highlands to collect yarsa

Residents of Manang district have ascended toward the highlands to collect yarsagumba (Ophiocordyceps sinesis) with the beginning of the yarsa picking season.

Generally, the yarsa picking season begins in May and it will continue till the third week of June.

Local people have set out for Namke Kharka, Khangsarkharka and Narphukharka in the Upper Manang to collect the valuable medicinal herbs. Their main income sources are agriculture and medicinal herbs. “We are heading to the highlands to collect yarsa as this season is favourable for the same,” said Jag Bahadur Gurung of Chame Rural Municipality-4.

They obtain permission for the yarsa picking from the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAAP) unit office in Manang. Herbs collection is considered one of the major sources of income for Manang folks. People from outside the district also arrive here for the yarsa collection.

Chief District Officer Suprabha Khanal Dhungel said necessary arrangements are in place for the security of yarsa collectors.

The collection has begun from the Namke alpine and it is permitted in Narfu and Khangsar of Upper Manang.

The possession of a COVID-19 vaccination card is compulsory for the yarsa and other herbs collectors and suppliers from outside the district.